Nautilus Solar Energy, on behalf of its affiliate Nautilus US Power Holdco, has successfully acquired a substantial 75.6 megawatt (MW) portfolio comprising 16 community solar projects across Illinois. These projects are anticipated to become operational between 2025 and 2027, consolidating Nautilus’s position in the community solar sector, particularly in the rapidly growing midwestern markets.
The newly acquired portfolio aligns with Illinois’ community solar program and contributes to the state’s renewable energy objectives of reaching 40% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.
Jeff Lee, Business Development Director at Nautilus, emphasized the significance of this acquisition in solidifying the company’s commitment to the Illinois market and expanding its overall presence in the Midwest. Lee stated, “The scale of this acquisition underlines Nautilus’s capabilities and reaffirms our position as a leading community solar company with projects and subscribers located across the country.”
As the long-term owner of the projects, Nautilus will be responsible for project oversight during construction, ensuring long-term performance, and managing customer subscriptions. The projects aim to provide cost savings on electric bills for both Ameren and ComEd customers while supporting the advancement of renewable energy and Illinois’ ambitious clean energy targets. Collectively, the projects are expected to generate clean energy to meet the needs of approximately 10,000 homes and commercial businesses.
Eric Paul, Vice President of Partner Development at Nautilus, highlighted Illinois’ commitment to renewable energy targets and emphasized Nautilus’s role in leading the transition. He stated, “Our focus is not just on producing clean energy but ensuring that the benefits, particularly the cost savings, reach every Illinoisan, especially those from low-to-moderate income backgrounds and historically disadvantaged communities.”
Community solar programs represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in the renewable energy industry, delivering locally produced, affordable clean energy to residents and businesses. Beyond environmental benefits, the development of community solar projects fosters community engagement, job creation, economic development, and responsible land use.
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